John Ballis

Based in Houston, Texas, John Ballis partners with retired NBA player Hakeem Olajuwon to operate Ballis Investments, a Houston-based real estate company where they acquire and manage properties. As President of the company, John Ballis maintains a solid working relationship with Olajuwon, who formerly served as the center for the Houston Rockets and still maintains a home in the area. After Ballis and Olajuwon bought a dilapidated bank building on Main Street, they renovated it over the course of three years, constructing the Islamic Da’wah Center in 1995.

Aside from his pursuits in the field of real estate, John Ballis possesses a passion for thoroughbred racing and has owned several horses. His most notable steed is Groovy, a horse that made headlines across the country. Groovy took a surprise victory at Belmont Park’s Tom Fool Stakes in 2009 when he beat the undefeated favorite, Phone Trick. John Ballis and his horse previously came in last at the Kentucky Derby and next-to-last at the Preakness. As a result, the Belmont victory at 6.25 lengths was particularly well received. When Groovy debuted, he won the Forever Casting Stakes at Meadowlands. After a long run in thoroughbred racing, Groovy sired more than 220 winners--18 of which were stakes winners--and was retired in 2001.

With involvement in a variety of professional activities and racing pursuits, John Ballis also employs his gifts for social good. As an underwriter for the renowned Texas Cattle Baron’s Ball, he aims to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. To date, he has helped to raise $22 million since the ball’s inception. Ballis enjoys the annual fundraiser, which features country music bands, dancing, a feast, games, and an auction. In addition to his contributions to cancer research, he generously donates to the local arts as a benefactor of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, where he has provided funds for an exhibition by one of his favorite artists, John Alexander. In addition, he serves as a member of the Dad’s Club Swim Team, an organization based in Houston that offers cutting-edge programs to novice swimmers and Olympians.